An EU strategy for a rapidly changing Arctic

The Arctic is changing fast. Climate change, geopolitical tensions, strategic competition, military activity and new shipping routes are reshaping the Arctic’s security and economic landscape. The Commission has put forward a new strategy for the Arctic - a new framework of cooperation with like-minded northern neighbours that places people, security, climate and prosperity at its core.

The four priorities of this strategy are

• strengthening security and resilience in the Arctic to improve preparedness, protect critical infrastructure and strengthen Europe's ability to operate in Arctic conditions. This work will be supported by a new maritime security hub
• responding to accelerating climate change by strengthening climate research, and support effective responses
• building an economically secure Arctic through the new EU polar research hub and by reinforcing the European Polar Coordination Office
• creating opportunities for people in the Arctic by supporting Arctic local governments in addressing shared challenges

The EU is part of the Arctic with more than half a million EU citizens in the Kingdom of Denmark, Finland and Sweden. It is warming nearly four times faster than the global average, affecting ecosystems, changing livelihoods and communities. 

Through the concrete measures in this new strategy, the EU is seeking to promote a stable and forward-looking Arctic, in close cooperation with Arctic partners and communities.

For more information

Press release - EU sets out a new Strategy for the Arctic

Factsheet –  Europe's Northern Neighbourhood: A new strategy for the Arctic

The EU and the Arctic